Other hands-on workshops include miniature clay crafting, mandala dot painting, Tanjore art, and drop-in craft activities.

Plus, you’ll receive a DIY kolam kit and learn a folk dance called kollattam (stick dance). The trail takes you around Campbell Lane to witness the colourful buzz of Pongal preparation and the dazzling light-up along Serangoon Road. For a full-on immersive experience, sign up for IHC Pongal Evening Trail. This year, the Indian Heritage Centre has an exciting line-up of cultural activities (till 16 January) to usher in the auspicious month. What’s happening during Pongal in Singapore? Photography: Indian Heritage Centre via Facebook These strengthen the ties between loved ones and the community. Families host reunions, children get blessings from their elders and many visit the temple on this special day. Who remembers the adorable animal parade in Little India in 2019 when cattle were adorned with flowers and red turmeric powder?įinally, Kannum Pongal marks the end of the festivities. The third day pays tribute to the cows for their hard work. It’s also common to light up oil lamps and decorate the floors with coloured rice flour, aka kolam. Remember the meaning of Pongal? The rice and milk overflow as the act symbolises prosperity and good fortune. Hindu devotees pay their respect to the Sun God by boiling a pot of rice and milk at the crack of dawn. And people offer prayers to Indra, the god of lightning, thunder, rains and river flows. In the villages, cows are revered with painted horns. Hindus tidy their homes and toss out unwanted things in a metaphorical nod to a fresh start. The four-day festival starts with Bhogi Pongal. How do people celebrate? Photography: Anshu A via Unsplash Local Scene Singapore culture 101: Get to know our rojak city 2.

Pongal festival